Clear Guide to the ULEZ Expansion in 2023

Air pollution adversely affects numerous London residents annually, and vehicle tailpipe emissions stand as a major contributor to this concerning air quality. While authorities have made substantial efforts to mitigate emissions and enhance air quality, additional measures are being introduced due to the persistence of air pollution.

In a bid to purify London’s air, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is set to extend its reach across all London boroughs starting August 29, 2023.

The Scope of the Extended ULEZ Area

At present, the ULEZ encompasses regions within the perimeters of the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205).

Commencing from August 29, 2023, the ULEZ scope will encompass all 33 boroughs of Greater London, with certain areas extending to the borders of the M25.

ULEZ Expansion Map

Notable Changes in the ULEZ Charge

The penalty charge for non-payment of the ULEZ charge will increase from £160 to £180 (£90 if settled within 14 days).

The daily £12.50 charge required and the emission standards for exemption from ULEZ charge payment remain unaltered.

Who is Obligated to Pay the ULEZ Fee?

Any individual operating a vehicle not conforming to the ULEZ emission standards within the extended regions, commencing August 29, 2023, must remit the daily £12.50 ULEZ charge. This includes ULEZ residents.

Payment isn’t requisite if your car remains parked within the ULEZ boundaries and isn’t driven.

The ULEZ charge applies ceaselessly, 24/7, throughout the year, except on Christmas Day (December 25th).

What are the ULEZ emission benchmarks?

For exemption from ULEZ charges, your car must adhere to the following emission standards:

Petrol cars (including hybrids) – Euro 4 or higher
Diesel cars (including diesel-hybrids) – Euro 6 or higher

A general guideline is that if your petrol car was manufactured post-January 2006, it’s likely ULEZ-compliant. Similarly, if your diesel car was produced post-September 2016, it probably adheres to ULEZ standards.

HINT: Plug-in hybrids and fully-electric cars meet ULEZ emission criteria and are exempt from ULEZ charges.

See if your car is ULEZ-compliant

What’s the course of action if your car loses ULEZ compliance?

As an Uber driver, consistently paying £87.50 weekly without compensation can strain your finances when driving a non-compliant vehicle.

The positive news is that the transition to an electric vehicle, entirely absolved from ULEZ and Congestion Charge expenses, is now more economically viable than ever.